'05 | #06  Clone Trooper - with Quick Draw Attack (Reviewed 08-12-2005)

Includes:
• Removable Armor
• Blaster

Click thumbnail for large image Spice: As much as I've used this segment to voice my displeasure towards Hasbro Inc., they have finally heard our cries and  gotten their heads out from within the tail end of their Dewback! The Clone Trooper was a hot item April 2, 2005 when the Revenge of the Sith product line hit the shelf. Since the figure has been few and far between, and does not last very long once it does hit the pegs. It was no surprise when the new red painted version began hitting the stores a few weeks ago, the "shock Trooper" is now one of the most sought after figures on the market today. We were introduced to this practice with the Royal Guard (#23) and if continued in this manner, I don't think it's necessarily a bad thing.

Click thumbnail for large image We could count on many changes to the armor and helmet vs. the AotC versions. You can see the evolution slowly growing into a Stormtrooper. The aerators and cheek stripes are present. The visor has also been modified to a fine blend of both the Clone and Storm Trooper. The removable shoulder plate is a needed touch for converting your loyal soldiers. Within seconds they will be ready to carry out "Order 66" and what is even better is we are privileged to receive another action feature that works! I do appreciate the many different points of movement, although not super articulated, they did enough to keep it from being another statue Trooper like the red carded Stormtrooper. It is no wonder why it has a zero shelf life!

Click thumbnail for large image I guess if we have to bend over and grab ankles on rehashes, this is perhaps the best way it could have been done. I can only hope that the Shock Trooper is put out in the same abundance the Clone Trooper was. While yes it was scalper bait, if you did hit the stores it was to be found. You'll need at least 4-8 of these bad boys to accompany his majesty's landing party, I'm just looking forward to acquiring another on card! I have to say both of these figures are a remarkable addition to your collection, if there is a flaw I'm not seeing it.

Spice - I have to say again if you are going to make us buy something twice, make a significant change to warrant the near seven dollars! You can never have too many Clones, why they aren't sold by the case is truly a wonder. Impressive design and wonderful concept and blend of the existing Troopers. Thumbs up all day long.

(Figure '05 | #06, Asst. No. 85173, Item No. 85279, Backing Card P/N 6394130700, Window Insert P/N 6394140700 ) 

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